Mrs. Dana Fraley Gray

Dana Fraley was born and raised in Norfolk, Virginia, the second child of Earl P. and Mary Johnson Fraley. A cradle Catholic, she attended Christ the King Elementary and Norfolk Catholic High School before earning her B.A. from Virginia Commonwealth University. 

After college, Dana embarked on an exciting career as a flight attendant, living the glamorous life and traveling both domestically and internationally. She eventually returned to Virginia at the urging of her parents and became one of the inaugural employees of the Virginia Lottery. Dana served the Commonwealth for over 30 years with dedication and pride. 

During her time at the Lottery, Dana gave birth to her beloved son, who became the light of her life—until she met the man of her dreams, James “Jimmy” Gray, who would later move her to the city she came to love and call her own. 

After retiring, Dana explored a brief career in real estate before devoting herself fully to her most cherished roles: a loving grandmother and the steadfast supporter of her husband’s political journey. 

Dana loved shopping and was truly the queen of bargains. Browsing the racks at her favorite stores was her form of therapy, and she cherished her annual shopping trips to New York with her lifelong friend, Lyn Simmons Jones.  

In her quieter moments, she found joy in keeping her mind sharp through reading, solving crossword puzzles, and watching her favorite TV game shows. 

Despite her health challenges, Dana remained a vibrant, unstoppable presence in every area of her life. She was a proud member of The Links, The Holidays, The Drifters and board member with the Hampton Art Foundation — organizations that reflected her deep love for community, culture, and friendship. 

Dana is lovingly remembered by her husband, James A. “Jimmy” Gray; her sons, Khalid A. Fraley and Christopher Gray; her daughters, Felicia Omole and Danielle Gray; her brother, Earl P. Fraley, Jr.; her aunt, Sadie James; her niece, Aarian Fraley Daniels; her nephew, Keith A. Fraley; three granddaughters; and a host of cousins and friends. 

She leaves behind a legacy of love, elegance, service, and strength. She will be deeply missed. 

*In lieu of flowers, the family request donations to the American Cancer Society in memory of Dana Fraley Gray

It is the desire of the Gray family that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

The family of Mrs. Dana Fraley Gray has entrusted her final care to C. C. Carter Funeral Home.

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